Reno 1868 FC wraps up regular season with big win, top five finish

Reno 1868 FC finished its USL regular season with a bang and a Top 5 finish following a 3-1 win over Orange County SC Saturday at Greater Nevada Field.

Reno’s night began with a bang as defender Brenton Griffiths headed in his first goal of the season off a Jerry van Ewijk corner in the 15th minute. Griffiths’ first goal came against his former club and gave Reno much needed momentum in its regular season finale.

Reno controlled possession and played tight on defense allowing for open play and plenty of chances on goal. Forward Antoine Hoppenot scored his fourth goal of the season off a deflected ball in the 41st minute to put Reno in control at halftime, up 2-0.

A tenacious Orange County SC squad came out firing in the second half and finally converted in the 58th minute. Leading scorer Thomas Enevoldsen scored his 20th goal of the season, ending the second ranked second in the USL for most goals.

Reno would respond to put the match away as forward Antoine Hoppenot completed his brace (two goals) in the 61st minute converting off a beautiful pass by defender Brent Richards.

Goalkeeper Matt Bersano continued his fantastic form in goal for the rest of the way ending the day with three saves. Bersano finished the regular season undefeated in 10 appearances.

Reno will now head to the 2018 USL Cup Playoffs in a likely matchup with Real Monarchs SLC Saturday at 2 p.m. PT at Zions Bank Stadium. Reno has one win over the Monarchs in its two-year history.